Instructions for Refilling Computer Ink Cartridges

By Robert Vaux

Overview

When printer ink cartridges run out of ink, they need to be replaced, often at a considerable expense. Instead of replacing an entire cartridge, it is more economical--and better for the environment--to purchase an ink refill kit, which would let you use the same cartridge numerous times before it has to be replaced. Specifics vary according to individual cartridge types, but the basic process is pretty much the same for most printer cartridges.

Step 1

Take the empty ink cartridge out of the printer and examine it closely. You need to determine where the inkwell is and whether there are any air vents or open holes which you can access. In many cases, you should simply remove the label on top. That will reveal a series of holes leading to the inkwell. Other cartridges will have no holes and you will need to consult the owner's manual--or just give the sides a look if the cartridge has a transparent plastic frame--to determine the location of the inkwell. Color cartridges will have three inkwells--cyan, yellow and magenta--in a single cartridge. You need to refill them with the correct ink or else your printouts will be the wrong color.
Step 2

Create a hole in the top of the cartridge above the inkwell. If there are air vents large enough to fit the syringe or needle in an ink replacement kit, you can skip this step. Otherwise, you can punch a hole using the appropriate tool provided in the ink replacement kit (see Resources below). If you don't have that tool, you can make a hole with a household drill. Use a small bit (3 mm is recommended) and drill carefully so that you don't damage the remainder of the cartridge.

Step 3

Fill the syringe in the ink replacement kit with the color of ink you require, or fit a needle into the ink bottle in the ink replacement kit (the specifics will vary depending on the kit). Then slip the needle or syringe into the hole you have made (or the air vent if it is large enough). Allow the ink to slowly drain from the bottle or slowly depress the plunger on the syringe. Don't squeeze too hard or you'll run the risk of overflowing: you may only wish to fill the inkwell to 3/4 capacity rather than risk a spill (it will still print plenty of copies).
Step 4

Remove the needle or syringe and plug the hole up with a piece of Scotch tape to keep the ink from leaking out. If you used an existing air vent, you don't need to cover it with tape.
Step 5

Put the cartridge back in the printer and run a few cleaning cycles to make sure it is running properly.

Skill: Easy
Ingredients:
Replacement ink kit
Drill
Small bit (3 mm)
Tape
Paper towels or newspapers
Tip: Put down some paper towels or old newspapers where you intend to work to contain spills.
Tip: While refilling computer ink cartridges works well in many cases, a few types of cartridge are too complicated to conduct an easy refill. Others may have "timers" in their chips which will prevent them from working after a set period of time. In these cases, you will need to purchase a replacement cartridge rather than refilling it.
Tip: In some cases, the refilled cartridge may not print even after you have refilled it. This may be because it uses a sponge as a part of its printing process, which must absorb more ink before it will work. Let the cartridge sit in the printer overnight (6 to 8 hours) before using it.
Warning:
These instructions are widely applicable, but presented in a generalized manner to fit with most types of ink cartridge. You may need to make small adjustments to the process in order to refill your particular cartridge.

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